A big question facing the Sharks' management and coaching staff in the coming weeks is where to play Brent Burns, who was acquired as a defenseman but showed his value as a forward in the second half of the regular season and in the playoffs.

Burns had nine goals and 11 assists for the Sharks during the regular season, all as a forward on a line with Joe Thornton, but may be needed more on defense as the team makes personnel decisions this summer and sets a roster for training camp in the fall.

"We owe it to the organization and we also owe it to Burnzie to let him know what we'd like to do moving forward," Sharks coach Todd McLellan said. "Brent will be able to participate in that, as well. We need a little time here. ... He's obviously a tremendous player in both positions."

Sharks general manager Doug Wilson, who confirmed Thursday that McLellan and his staff will return next season, was appreciative of Burns' willingness to play forward in March as the team looked to bolster a sagging offense and play a more north-south style.

"His immediate response was, 'If it helps the team, I'll do it.' That tells a lot about him," Wilson said. "We'll go through those conversations with the coaches next week and again we'll do what's best for the team."

Burns said it does not matter to him whether he plays forward or defense next season.